Embark on a short and easy adventure just outside Paria, Utah, where the Nautilus trail awaits. This picturesque path leads you to the Nautilus rock formation, a geological marvel resembling the intricate spirals of its namesake shell. As you traverse the trail, be prepared to be enchanted not only by the Nautilus but also by the captivating rock formations that dot the landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a casual nature enthusiast, the Nautilus hike promises an unforgettable journey.
What is a Nautilus?
A nautilus is a marine mollusk that belongs to the cephalopod class, along with octopuses, squid, and cuttlefish. Nautiluses are often considered “living fossils” because they have remained relatively unchanged for millions of years and are the only living members of the subclass Nautiloidea, which once included numerous species.
Directions to the Nautilus Trail Head
The Nautilus is located right next to Paria, UT, 45 minutes east of Kanab, UT, and 35 minutes west of Page, AZ.
Take the White House Road and turn along Highway 89 to get to the trail. Follow White House Road to a wash just before White House Campground. The Road is dirt but well-maintained.
At the second wash along the road, you will stop and park at a little pull-off just before the wash. The pull-off is not big, and there is no official trailhead, but there is a path leading down the wash. If you are looking towards the campground, you will go to your left. You will know you’re at the right place if you come to a fence going across the wash a short distance from the start.
Hiking to the Nautilus
The trail to The Nautilus is less than a one-mile round trip on flat sandy ground and easy to navigate. The trail starts at the wash and goes east. Your first obstacle will be to walk around a fence that crosses the wash and keep going. As you continue, you will see a lot of interesting rocks; eventually, you will see a large white mound coming up out of the sand to the right. The Nautilus is inside that white dome.
Once you reach the Nautilus, you can hike or slide down into it. It is a fun rock to play around on. The swirls and textures make great photos!
Nearby Hikes
The Nautilus is a quick and easy hike! If you are looking for additional hikes in the area, here are some of my favorites:
Buckskin Gulch
Buckskin Gulch is one of the world’s longest and deepest slot canyons, known for its narrow passages, towering walls, and unique sandstone formations. It is located in the Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Area. The main trailhead for Buckskin Gulch is located at the Wire Pass Trailhead, accessible via House Rock Valley Road. The length of your hike in Buckskin Gulch can vary, ranging from a few miles to a multi-day backpacking trip.
Catstair Canyon
Catstair Canyon has two parts: upper Catstair Canyon and Lower Catstair Canyon. The upper portion is a unique slot canyon with old cars piled inside of it. The lower portion has petroglyphs and pictographs. Both canyons can be accessed by a short hike; however, the upper canyon is more technical and requires climbing up and over rocks. Each section is located off Highway 89 just outside of Paria, Utah.
Cobra Arch
Cobra Arch is a natural sandstone arch with a distinctive shape resembling the head of a cobra. The arch is situated in a remote desert landscape, accessible via off-road trails. The drive to the trailhead begins on Long Valley Road, which is located off Highway 89 in Paria, Utah, and requires a 4-wheel drive.
Edmaiers Secret
Edmaiers Secret is famous for its surreal and colorful sandstone formations. The hike involves navigating through a remote desert landscape to reach this natural wonder. Edmaiers Secret can be accessed from the Buckskin Gulch Trailhead, accessible via House Rock Valley Road.
The Toadstools
The Toadstools are located in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in southern Utah and feature unique mushroom-shaped rock formations created by erosion. The trailhead is located along Highway 89 between Kanab and Page, near the Paria Contact Station. The hike is relatively short and easy; it is approximately 1.5 miles round trip.
White House Trailhead to Paria Canyon
The White House Trailhead is on the same road as the Nautilus. The hike consists of following the Paria River through some beautiful scenery with cool rock walls. Whitehouse Trail can be done as a loop through Buckskin Gulch or as a shorter out-and-back hike. The White House Trailhead has a parking area and primitive restroom facilities.
Wire Pass
Wire Pass offers a scenic hike through a narrow slot canyon, with towering walls and light filtering through the narrow passages. The trail eventually joins Buckskin Gulch, providing access to further exploration. The hike just through Wire Pass is approximately 1.7 miles one way. The trailhead is located on House Rock Valley Road.
Leave the Nautilus Better Than You Found It!
Remember to respect nature and follow ethical practices when engaging in outdoor activities. Always leave a place better than you found it, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. Enjoy your time exploring the trails and discovering the area’s hidden treasures!